Photo Bloomberg
According to the prosecution's version, in 2014, Lau initiated the creation of a covert team of software developers for OnePlus in Taiwan. These employees were engaged in the development, testing, and verification of applications, while their work was conducted without the necessary permits from regulators. It is claimed that funding and salary payments were made through intermediary structures registered in Hong Kong.
During the investigation, charges were also brought against two residents of Taiwan who collaborated with Lau, accused of violating legislation regulating labor and economic relations between Taiwan and mainland China.
This investigation is taking place against the backdrop of tightening policies by Taiwanese authorities regarding Chinese technology companies, which are prohibited from opening offices in the country and hiring specialists without government approval. At the same time, sources note that similar schemes, using formally independent companies in Hong Kong, have already been employed by Chinese manufacturers to circumvent existing restrictions.
The company OnePlus is engaged in smartphone manufacturing, targeting the international market.
